Educational Effectiveness Evaluation Plan

BS Biological Sciences

Learning Outcomes

  • Students will apply the scientific method to original research.
  • Students will demonstrate familiarity with key concepts of biology.
  • Students will apply quantitative reasoning and analysis to biological science problems.
  • Students will evaluate primary literature.

Course requirements for the degree

» University Catalog

Curricular Map

The curriculum map shows how each required course contributes to the program's learning outcomes.

» Curricular Map (PDF)

Annual Learning Outcomes Assessment Report(s)

In a process called assessment, the faculty of each degree program measure student attainment of program learning outcomes goals on an annual basis. The assessment processes used by this program can be found in the link (PDF) below:

» Learning Outcomes Assessment Process (PDF)

Assessment Rubric

In assessing learning outcomes, program faculty often develop rubrics which establish criteria and expectations showing how outcomes are evaluated. The assessment processes used by this program can be found in the link (PDF) below:

» Learning Outcomes Assessment Rubric (PDF)

Program Review

Program review represents Chapman's commitment to excellence in academic programs through periodic review of educational effectiveness. Every 5 to 7 years, program faculty members prepare a self-study report, which is reviewed by external, expert reviewers, numerous Chapman faculty governance councils and committees, and the Office of the Chancellor. Program review provides an opportunity for each program to reflect on its educational effectiveness as well as its contribution to the university's mission and strategic plan. The results of program review guide institutional planning, budgeting and decision-making.

Program Review Schedule: 1989-1999, 2001-2002, 2011-2012, 2016-2017

2011-2012 review timeline below:

  • Self Study: Fall 2011
  • External Review/Site Visit: Fall 2011
  • External Reviewers Report Submitted: Fall 2011
  • Departmental Response Letters to External Report: Spring 2012
  • Long Range Planning Council Response: Spring 2012
  • Assessment Committee Response: Spring 2012
  • Faculty Academic Response: Spring 2012
  • Chancellor Response to Program Review: Fall 2012

Institutional Response and Action Items resulting from the Program Review:

  • New senior lab safety position established
  • Summer research program funded
  • Curriculum to be updated
  • Strategic plan to be created
  • Modified and reviewed process to clarify tenure review process for junior faculty
  • New faculty line to be established
  • 2 additional course releases allocated each semester to support faculty research
  • Annual stipend and one course release allocated for Head of Faculty for Biological Sciences

Learn More

See department website for additional information about this program